Replace the background in your photos with any scene you like. Whether you use a physical backdrop or go fully virtual, good lighting and test shots are essential for great results.
Background Replacement is available on Core, Plus, Pro, and Select.
1. Choose a replacement method
You can replace backgrounds with or without a physical backdrop.
Virtual background replacement
This method uses AI to remove and replace the background without a physical backdrop. It simplifies your setup and removes the need for a large green or blue screen at your event.
For the best experience, use an iPad with an A14 chip or newer. These iPads show a live preview and let participants choose their background before taking a photo. Recommended models:
iPad (10th generation)
iPad Air (4th generation)
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation)
iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation)
On older iPads, backgrounds don't appear during capture. The app applies the first background in your settings after capture. If you turn on Background Replacement as an editing tool, participants can then switch to your other backgrounds.
Green or blue screen
A physical backdrop is a good choice if:
You're using an older iPad and want a live preview.
Your event has a busy background or inconsistent lighting.
2. Turn on Background Replacement
You can set up Background Replacement from your preset settings in the HALO app or on the online dashboard. Changes sync between the two. On the dashboard, these settings are on the Background Replacement settings card, which looks a little different but works the same way.
Open Background Replacement in your preset settings.
Turn on Background Replacement.
Choose your backdrop type: green screen, blue screen, or virtual (no physical backdrop).
Upload at least one background file.
Background Replacement turns off automatically if no background file is uploaded.
To let participants choose a different background after capture, upload multiple backgrounds and turn on Background Replacement as an editing tool.
Background file sizing
Sizing depends only on your layout's crop or orientation.
Landscape | Portrait | Square |
1,280 x 960 px | 960 x 1,280 px | 960 x 960 px |
Background files can be JPEG or PNG, up to 4 MB. Learn more in the HALO Graphic Design Guide.
3. Event setup
Good lighting and backdrop setup are the key to clean background replacement.
Lighting
You need a strong, even light source.
For options, see Lighting Recommendations and DIY Lighting Recommendation.
If your space is unevenly or dimly lit, consider adding fill lights on the sides.
Lighting tips:
Adjust your light brightness and the app's camera exposure together. Aim to reduce shadows and avoid over- or underexposure.
Avoid overhead lighting and harsh shadows, which can interfere with background removal.
Monitor your gallery during the event so you can catch and fix lighting issues early.
Virtual replacement setup
Use a plain, uncluttered background.
Avoid physical props and face coverings. The software is designed to detect people, not objects.
Green or blue screen setup
Use a smooth, wrinkle-resistant cloth backdrop.
Clamp the backdrop securely to remove folds.
Eliminate shadows and bright spots on the fabric.
Keep participants a few feet in front of the backdrop. If guests stand too close, color from the backdrop can spill onto their clothing or hair. Marking a spot on the floor helps show guests where to stand.
Using HALO 5.0? See Background Replacement in the HALO 5.0 documentation.